The Theatre Studies major is both an academic field of study and a practical application of that study.

The purpose of the major is to provide students with a theoretical knowledge and appreciation of the history and literature of the theatre. In addition, students are instructed and given hands-on experience in production and promotion of theatrical events. The theatre is one of the oldest art forms in existence, and students learn valuable information about the way various disparate societies have evolved throughout the ages.

Students are expected to work on productions as performers and technicians. The theatre department actively tries to cultivate well-rounded theatre students who are knowledgeable in all areas of theatre.

Goals for the Major

The ability to break down and score a scene, conduct a rehearsal and produce a play

An understanding of the development of dra- matic literature from the Greeks to the present, and ability to identify major movements within that chronology

Knowledge of current theatre technologies

Problem solving independently, and within an ensemble

Basic construction skills and attention to detail in execution

Competence to compete with conservatory-trained graduates for graduate school or casting/hiring opportunities within the industry.

Major Requirements

Students majoring in Theatre Studies must take a minimum of nine units. Of these units, majors must include:

THST 203

Either THST 212 or THST 215

Two classes at the 300 level

At least five of the nine courses must be taken within the theatre studies department. The remaining four may be drawn from any related department.

Developments in the teatre arts are a result of stage experiments, and because the theare performance is an expression of theatre scholarship, it is expected that students planning a major in theatre will elect to complement formal study of theatre with practicle experience in the extracurricular production program of the College Theatre and related on-campus producing organizations. Students may also remain on campus over the summer or Wintersession (depending on housing availability) to gain experience with the Wellesley Summer Theatre Company (the professional wing of the academic department) for credit. All students are encouraged to participate in THST 250 and THST 350 individual study offerings in order to pursue their particular area of theatre interest.

Honors in Theatre Studies

The theatre program offers a variety of opportunities for honors. After consultation with the director, the candidate will devise a proposal that incorporates both the academic and the practicle aspects fo the thesis. Normally, the candidate completes the research and writing segment of the thesis in the first semester. In the second semester, the candidate produces the practical/theatrical component for public performance. Applicants for honors should have a minimum 3.5 GPA in all work in the major field above the 100 level; the department may petition on their behalf if their GPA in the major is between 3.0 and 3.5.